The Secret of Kells Blu-ray + DVD: What's on Each Disc

By GKIDS Store— GKIDS Films | Published: 2026-10-31

Category: Product Reviews

A disc-by-disc look at The Secret of Kells Blu-ray + DVD combo pack, from picture quality and audio to the extras that come with Cartoon Saloon's Oscar-nominated debut.

Quick answer

The Secret of Kells Blu-ray + DVD gives you the film on Blu-ray for the best picture and sound at home, plus a DVD copy for players without a Blu-ray drive. Both discs carry the movie; the Blu-ray is the one to use first if your setup supports it.

Why the Blu-ray disc should be your default

The Blu-ray disc is the primary viewing copy in this combo pack. If you have a Blu-ray player, a PlayStation 3 or newer console, or a Blu-ray drive in a computer, start there. The DVD is best treated as a backup for older players, a second room, or lending to someone who hasn't upgraded yet.

This is a two-disc set, not a Blu-ray-only release, so the DVD copy is part of what you're paying for. If you only ever watch on a Blu-ray player, the DVD may go unused, but it adds flexibility for families with mixed equipment.

What to expect from the film itself

The Secret of Kells is the debut feature from director Tomm Moore and animation studio Cartoon Saloon, the team behind Song of the Sea. It was nominated for an Academy Award and blends magic, fantasy, and Celtic mythology into a story about imagination and faith carrying humanity through dark times.

The voice cast includes Brendan Gleeson, Mick Lally, and Evan McGuire. That context matters when you're deciding whether the disc is worth a spot on your shelf: this is an art-driven animated film, and the Blu-ray format is the better way to see its color and detail.

A note on extras and specifications

The supplied catalog information for this release does not list specific bonus features, runtime, region coding, or subtitle options. If you need a particular extra or language track, treat that as an open question rather than assuming it is included. The safe expectation is the film on both discs, with the Blu-ray as the higher-quality copy.

Common questions about this two-disc set

Which disc should I watch first?: Use the Blu-ray disc if you have a Blu-ray player, console, or computer drive. It is the higher-quality copy in the set. Keep the DVD for a DVD-only player or a second location. Check your player's logo before choosing a disc.
Is the DVD just a coaster if I have a Blu-ray player?: No. The DVD is a usable second copy for a bedroom player, a laptop with a DVD drive, or lending. It also makes the set easier to share with family members who haven't moved to Blu-ray.
Does the combo pack include digital streaming?: The supplied product information lists only Blu-ray and DVD discs. It does not mention a digital copy or streaming code, so do not buy this set expecting one. Confirm digital copy claims on the packaging before purchase if that matters to you.
Are the Blu-ray extras listed anywhere?: The catalog entry does not detail bonus features. If a specific extra is important, verify it on the case or a retailer listing before ordering rather than assuming a standard set of supplements.
Is this a good first Cartoon Saloon purchase?: Yes, if you want to start at the beginning. The Secret of Kells is the studio's debut feature, and the Blu-ray + DVD format gives you a viewing copy for most players without needing a separate DVD purchase.

Product facts

The Secret of Kells [Blu-ray + DVD]: The Secret of Kells [Blu-ray + DVD] is the Oscar-nominated debut feature from director Tomm Moore and Cartoon Saloon. It is the foundational title for anyone collecting Cartoon Saloon's work on disc, and the combo format covers both Blu-ray and DVD players.
The Secret of Kells [Blu-ray + DVD]